chronic fatigue syndrome Archives - Amazing Health Advances

Vitamin B: Effective Cure for Many Intestinal Patients with Chronic Fatigue

The AHA! Team — Fri, 13 Dec 2024 06:35:56 +0000

Aarhus University via EurekAlert! – A new study reveals the link between gut bacteria and the effectiveness of vitamin B1 treatment for chronic disease in patients with intestinal inflammation. Fatigue is a common and often debilitating companion for people with inflammatory bowel conditions. Now, a new Danish study provides insight into why vitamin B1 – also known as thiamine – helps some patients regain their energy, while others do not experience the same effect. The study shows, among other things, that patients’ response to vitamin B1 depends on gut bacteria, with researchers focusing particularly on a specific “good bug” that seems to play a crucial role. “We know that about half of the fatigued patients benefit from treatment with vitamin B1, but we haven’t been able to find anything that distinguishes those who had an effect from those who did not. Now we know that it’s especially the bacterium Faecalibacterium prausnitzii (FP) that is the key,” says Professor and Consultant Christian Lodberg Hvas, who is the lead author of the study. Surprising findings FP is a bacterium that many studies have identified as having beneficial properties or at least being frequently found in people with a healthy gut. The researchers were surprised to find that the presence of a single key bacterium determines whether patients with chronic fatigue experience a good effect from thiamine treatment. “We thought we were looking for a ‘fatigue microbiome,’ a composition of gut bacteria that is particularly seen in patients with chronic fatigue. But we didn’t find that. Instead, we found that the microbiome of the fatigued largely resembles the microbiome of those who are not fatigued,” explains Christian Lodberg Hvas. Still a mystery The study involved 40 patients with inflammatory bowel disease and chronic fatigue. Each patient received both vitamin B1 and a placebo in two periods of four weeks with a break in between. This allowed the researchers to see if the vitamin treatment had an effect on fatigue. At the same time, the researchers examined the patients’ gut bacteria to see if there was a correlation between specific bacteria and the effect of the treatment. Although the researchers found a clear connection between FP and the patients’ response to the treatment, it remains a mystery why this is the case. “The bacterium is largely present in people with good health and only present in low numbers in people with chronic diseases. We don’t know if it’s just a marker for health or if it’s part of the reason why healthy people are indeed healthy,” explains Christian Lodberg Hvas. “But the more studies that point to a beneficial effect of FP, the more it suggests that the bacterium is involved as a cause of health and not just as a bystander,” he adds. A cure for many with unexplained fatigue For some patients, fatigue can be explained by a lack of iron, vitamin D, or low thyroid function. These are all conditions that are easy to treat. But a large group of patients with inflammatory bowel disease remains with unexplained fatigue. “We really want to help them, and although we don’t have an explanation, we now have a cure – for those who have many FP in their gut,” says Christian Lodberg Hvas. “Therefore, we now recommend high-dose vitamin B1 treatment to all our patients where we don’t find any obvious explanation for chronic fatigue. We know that it only works for half, but it’s still a good chance, and a month’s treatment is cheap,” he adds. The clear recommendation also comes because the treatment has proven to be completely free of side effects. “However, one must accept that thiamine smells and tastes peculiar – so your hands, urine, and sweat will smell like vitamin pills with the very high dose you’re taking,” says Christian Lodberg Hvas. About the research: Study type: Exploratory analyses of biological material from a randomized clinical trial Collaborators: DTU National Food Institute External funding: Novo Nordisk Foundation Link to scientific article: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.gastha.2024.08.012 DOI 10.1016/j.gastha.2024.08.012 To read the original article click here.

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Leaky Gut Syndrome: 7 Signs You May Have It

AHA Publisher — Mon, 10 Jan 2022 08:00:32 +0000

Dr. Josh Axe, DC, DNM, CN – As more Americans are affected by poor diet choices, chronic stress, toxic overload and bacterial imbalance, it appears that the prevalence of leaky gut is potentially reaching epidemic proportions. The medical profession is just now agreeing this condition even exists, which is especially shocking considering that “intestinal permeability” (another name for leaky gut) has been discussed in the medical literature for over 100 years! Why should leaky gut syndrome concern you? In recent years, leaky gut has been called a “danger signal for autoimmune disease.” In this article, I outline a brief description of common leaky gut syndrome symptoms seen in people struggling with this condition. I also recommend a four-step process to help promote healing — including trigger foods to remove from your diet and beneficial supplements to add in. What Is Leaky Gut Syndrome? The father of modern medicine, Hippocrates, said, “All disease begins in the gut.” More than two millennia after his death, scientific research has now proven he was on to something all those years ago. For over three decades, study after study has been published (several thousand articles exist to date) discussing our growing understanding of immunity, gut function, and how modern diets and lifestyles negatively contribute to overall health by damaging the digestive system. I (and many others in the medical field) refer to this particular phenomenon as leaky gut syndrome. In the medical literature, leaky gut is also referred to as “increased intestinal hyperpermeability.” What Happens When You Have Leaky Gut? The intestines are protected by a single layer of specialized epithelial cells that are linked together by tight junction (or TJ) proteins. As one 2020 review explains, leaky gut symptoms are a consequence of intestinal TJ malfunction. These TJ proteins are the gateway between your intestines and your bloodstream. They control what is allowed to pass into the bloodstream from your digestive system. More than 40 different TJ proteins have now been recognized to play a role in gut health. TJ proteins have a very precise job. They have to maintain the delicate balance between allowing vital nutrients to enter your bloodstream, while remaining small enough to prevent xenobiotics (disease-causing substances like toxins and bacteria) from passing out of your digestive system into the rest of your body. Here’s how a report published in the journal Frontiers in Immunology describes the pathology of intestinal permeability: The intestinal epithelial lining, together with factors secreted from it, forms a barrier that separates the host from the environment. In pathologic conditions, the permeability of the epithelial lining may be compromised allowing the passage of toxins, antigens, and bacteria in the lumen to enter the bloodstream creating a “leaky gut.” Symptoms (Plus Related Conditions) According to one review focusing on medically reviewed research about intestinal permeability (among other sources), the chronic condition of hyperpermeability may be linked to numerous symptoms and health conditions, including some autoimmune diseases. What are the symptoms of leaky gut? Some of the most prominent signs you may have this condition include: Gastric ulcers Joint pain Infectious diarrhea Irritable bowel syndrome Inflammatory bowel diseases (Crohn’s, ulcerative colitis) Small intestine bacterial overgrowth Celiac disease Esophageal and colorectal cancer Allergies Respiratory infections Acute inflammation conditions (sepsis, SIRS, multiple organ failure) Chronic inflammatory conditions (such as arthritis) Thyroid disorders Obesity-related metabolic diseases (fatty liver, type II diabetes, heart disease) Autoimmune diseases (such as lupus, multiple sclerosis, type I diabetes, Hashimoto’s and more) Parkinson’s disease Chronic fatigue syndrome Propensity toward weight gain or obesity Leaky gut may not directly cause any of these conditions — it’s more that people who have gut issues are more likely to have a number of other health problems. So while the scientific evidence has not yet proven that increased intestinal hyperpermeability is actually responsible for these conditions, it strongly suggests that leaky gut and other dysfunctions tend to occur simultaneously. Here’s more about some of these problems can develop due to gut dysfunction: 1. Food Sensitivities Some research suggests that intestinal hyperpermeability can cause the immune system to overproduce various antibodies, which may make some more susceptible to antigens in certain foods (especially gluten and dairy). In studies involving rats and human children, leaky gut and food allergies have been linked. Allergies are believed to be one of the most common symptoms. 2. Inflammatory Bowel Disease Researchers from Hungary uncovered in 2012 that elevated gut permeability is oftentimes localized to the colon in people suffering from irritable bowel syndrome and ulcerative colitis. As far back as 1988, scientists suggested that Crohn’s disease may be more of a risk for people with leaky gut. A small study (observing 12 patients) discovered that zinc supplementation may help resolvethe TJ dysfunction in these cases, although more medically reviewed research is required on a larger scale to confirm these results. 3. Autoimmune Disease The key to understanding how leaky gut can cause autoimmune diseases is through research done on a protein known as “zonulin.” According to a one article published in the journal Physiologic Reviews: Zonulin is the only physiological modulator of intercellular tight junctions described so far that is involved in trafficking of macromolecules and, therefore, in tolerance/immune response balance. When the finely tuned zonulin pathway is deregulated in genetically susceptible individuals, both intestinal and extraintestinal autoimmune, inflammatory, and neoplastic disorders can occur. Eating certain food allergens, such as gluten, may trigger this dangerous cascade. University of Maryland School of Medicine researchers uncovered that gluten “activates zonulin signaling irrespective of the genetic expression of autoimmunity, leading to increased intestinal permeability to macromolecules.” The good news is that it seems possible to reverse these autoimmune reactions’ problematic immune responses. 4. Thyroid Problems One of the autoimmune diseases that leaky gut syndrome may directly affect is Hashimoto’s disease. Also known as “chronic thyroiditis,” this disorder is displayed with hypothyroidism (low thyroid function), impaired metabolism, fatigue, depression, weight gain and a host of other concerns. 5. Nutrient Malabsorption In my patients I saw at my Nashville chiropractic clinic from 2007 to 2014, I observed various nutritional deficiencies resulting from leaky gut, including vitamin B12, magnesium and digestive enzymes. Those common nutrient deficiencies are one reason why many functional medicine practitioners prescribe a whole-food multivitamin in addition to probiotics for people suffering from this condition. 6. Inflammatory Skin Conditions First described over 70 years ago, the “gut-skin connection theory” describes how increased intestinal hyperpermeability can cause a slew of skin conditions, particularly acne and psoriasis. Creams and drugs with endless lists of (sometimes dangerous) side effects are often prescribed for these skin disorders, yet there has been evidence for several decades that part of the root cause might exist in the gut. 7. Mood Issues and Autism According to a study published in the journal Neuroendocrinology Letters, intestinal permeability has been shown to contribute to various neurocognitive disorders. For example, the inflammatory response characteristic of intestinal hyperpermeability triggers the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines and other chemicals that are thought to induce depression. A study published in the journal Nutritional Neuroscience described the “vicious circle between immune system impairment and increasing dysbiosis that leads to leaky gut and neurochemical compounds and/or neurotoxic xenobiotics production and absorption.” The authors go on to describe findings from a number of studies that point to their theory that autism may be connected to problems in the microbiome, particularly within the first year of life. It is actually now a common hypothesis in modern science. Causes What is the main cause of leaky gut? As explained above, it occurs when certain tiny particles that should never be able to enter your bloodstream start to make their way through due to dysfunction of the mucosal barrier in the gut. There also commonly are abnormalities in the gut stemming from antimicrobial molecules, immunoglobulins and cytokine activities. This presents a major problem, as the vast majority of your immune system is found inside the gut (sometimes called the microbiome). The result is a disruption of acute inflammation and sometimes autoimmune reactions. A normal part of your immune response that serves to fight infections and diseases winds up over-performing, leading to chronic inflammation, which is at the root of most diseases. Some of the underlying causes of leaky gut include: Genetic predisposition — Certain people may be more predisposed to developing this condition because they are sensitive to environmental factors that “trigger” their bodies into initiating autoimmune responses. Poor diet — Especially a diet that includes allergens and inflammatory foods, such as unsprouted grains, added sugar, GMOs, refined oils, synthetic food additives, conventional dairy products and alcohol. Chronic stress Toxin overload — This includes “chronic stressors,” such as high drug and alcohol consumption. We come into contact with over 80,000 chemicals and toxins every single year, but the worst offenders for causing leaky gut include antibiotics, pesticides, tap water, aspirin and NSAIDs. I recommend buying a high-quality water filter to eliminate chlorine and fluoride and look to natural plant-based herbs to reduce inflammation in your body. Bacterial imbalance — Also called dysbiosis, which means an imbalance between beneficial and harmful species of bacteria in your gut. A large body of evidence now shows that gut microbiota is important in supporting the epithelial barrier and preventing autoimmune reactions. At least 10 percent of all gene transcriptions found in intestinal epithelial cells that are related to immunity, cell proliferation and metabolism are regulated by gut microbiota. Medical Definition/Research Do most conventional doctors support the idea that leaky gut is real? Not exactly, as it the topic remains controversial. WebMD refers to leaky gut as “something of a medical mystery.” This isn’t surprising, since it’s not a diagnosis that most doctors have been taught in medical school. “From an MD’s standpoint, it’s a very gray area,” says gastroenterologist Donald Kirby, MD – director of the Center for Human Nutrition at the Cleveland Clinic. In his opinion, “Physicians don’t know enough about the gut, which is our biggest immune system organ.” However, a roundtable review quotes the researchers at seven different European universities in 2014 agreeing upon the following: Alteration of the gut barrier seems to have multiple consequences facilitating the onset of a variety of diseases depending on other hits and on genetic or epigenetic constellations, respectively. The growing significance of the gut barrier and bacterial translocation raises the questions of how we can improve gut barrier functions and gut microbiota. While it’s encouraging that science is coming around to leaky gut syndrome being a real problem, we are by no means at a point where there are standard diagnostic tools for testing and treating this problem. This means that MDs are often left with no other choice than to follow what they believe to be the “safe path” and prescribe drugs that only treat symptoms. For example, medications (like proton pump inhibitors or antacids) can be used to manage symptoms like acid reflux medications, but these drugs don’t solve the root problem. Because there is so much unknown about leaky gut syndrome, it’s critical that you understand what leaky gut is and what to look out for in case you or a loved one is affected by it. The good news is that many functional and integrative medicine practitioners have a greater understanding of this condition than they did even a decade ago. How to Get Rid of Leaky Gut (Treatment) Several leaky gut syndrome tests are available that can help confirm a diagnosis and point you in the right treatment direction. Tests are helpful for identifying specific sensitivities and uncovering which types of toxins or deficiencies are contributing to your symptoms. Available tests include: Zonulin or Lactulose Tests IgG Food Intolerance Test Stools Tests Organic Acid Vitamin and Mineral Deficiencies Tests Lactulose Mannitol Test What leaky gut treatments are available? After years of research and patient care, I developed a four-step process for helping treat leaky gut. I cover this process in my leaky gut diet and treatment plan. If you’re concerned that you or a loved one may have this condition, I encourage you to read the detailed instructions, food suggestions and recommended supplements listed in that article. The basic steps to healing leaky gut are as follows: Remove foods and factors that damage the gut. Replace these...

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Want to Boost Your Gut Microbiome? Discover 10 Foods That Promote Microbial Balance

AHA Publisher — Fri, 08 Oct 2021 07:00:16 +0000

Lori Alton via NaturalHealth365 – Believe it or not, the average person has trillions of bacteria living in their intestinal tract, accounting for an astonishing two to four pounds of total body weight. Although this may be an unsettling concept, the truth is: this community of microbes – also known as the gut microbiome – is not only beneficial but essential for health. Recently, there has been a lot of “buzz” in scientific research concerning the far-reaching benefits of a diverse and balanced gut microbiome – and what can be done to promote it. A 2020 review of the literature published in Nutrition Reviews showcases the fact that the foods we eat have a profound impact on the composition and variety of microorganisms living in the digestive tract. So let’s see which choices offer the most “bang for the buck.” Why Is the Gut Microbiome So Important? Research has shown that beneficial gut bacteria help absorb nutrients, bolster immune system health, facilitate hormone function, promote digestion and even help prevent obesity. In addition, they can influence cognition and mood. The trillions of bacteria in the gut microbiome are comprised of up to 400 different species. Problems arise when there is an imbalance between the “friendly” bacteria, such as Lactobacillus, and “bad” microorganisms, including E. coli, Bacteroides, Pseudomonas, and Candida yeast cells. Disturbed bacterial balance, also known as dysbiosis, sets the stage for ill effects and various diseases, including “leaky gut,” irritable bowel syndrome, chronic fatigue syndrome, Candida overgrowth, and autoimmune disorders. Incredible! Gut Microbiome Health and Nutrition Are Linked in MULTIPLE Ways The review, conducted jointly by researchers at George Washington University and the National Institute of Standards and Technology, evaluated the specific effects of nutrition and diet on the gut’s microbial composition. The researchers examined the role of micronutrients – which include vitamins and minerals – and macronutrients (larger components of food such as carbs, protein, and fiber). Intriguingly, they noted that while dietary fiber nourishes gut bacteria, excessive amounts of protein may create potentially harmful metabolites (byproducts) that can remain in the gut and increase the risk of health problems. Study leader Leigh A. Frame, Ph.D. – director of Integrative Medicine at the George Washington School of Medicine and Health Science – stressed the importance of the research. “As we learn more about the gut microbiome and nutrition, we are learning how influential they are to each other …. and to the role, they both play in prevention and treatment of disease,” Dr. Frame noted. THESE 5 Foods Are Most Valuable for Maintaining Good Microbial Balance According to naturopathic physician Eric Bakker, N.D. – a leading expert in gut disorders – the best foods for the gut are those that promote good digestion, strengthen immune function, and are “probiotic” (meaning they encourage the growth of beneficial bacteria). Dr. Bakker agrees with many other natural health experts that Jerusalem artichokes top the list at Number 1 due to their high levels of a beneficial fiber known as inulin (not to be confused with insulin). Inulin is prebiotic, meaning that it not only encourages beneficial bacteria but directly provides fuel for them. Although Jerusalem artichokes (also known as “sunchokes”) are not overwhelmingly popular in the United States, that may change as people begin to discover their health benefits and piquant flavor. These sweet, crunchy tubers can be roasted, added to a stir fry, or nibbled raw. Right behind Jerusalem artichokes, at Number 2, are bananas, which are also rich in inulin. When you pair these foods with coconut milk or coconut oil, you’ll incorporate the Number 3 food on the list. Coconuts are high in caprylic acid, a beneficial medium-chain fatty acid that can help stop harmful bacteria and yeasts right in their tracks. Grapefruit seed extract (GSE) earns its place at Number 4 on the list because it mercilessly targets “bad” bacteria while leaving “friendlies” unharmed. And Number 5, garlic – another prebiotic food – is renowned for its ability to deliver a “one-two punch” against dysbiosis, killing off harmful bacteria and yeasts while encouraging the growth of beneficial bacteria. Tip: if fresh garlic isn’t your “thing,” aged garlic extract is available as a supplement – and supplies the same benefits. You can also improve gut health with garlic’s milder-tasting “cousins,” such as onions, leeks, shallots, and chives. Gut Health Benefits Continue With 5 More Superfoods Butter and clarified butter (known as ghee) are high in butyric acid, healthy fat with anti-inflammatory properties. (Be sure to seek out organic butter from grass-fed cows). And cruciferous vegetables – including cabbage, kale, cauliflower, broccoli, and arugula – possess a secret weapon against dysbiosis called indole-3-carbinol. This beneficial prebiotic fiber excels at promoting the survival of Lactobacillus, an important “friendly” species of bacteria. Beans, rich in fiber and nutrients, are known to strengthen the intestinal walls and work against “leaky gut,” a condition that can cause pathogens and undigested food particles to enter the bloodstream. Cultured and fermented foods, such as miso and yogurt with live active cultures, also have been awarded “superstar” status by natural health experts for their ability to keep the gut microbiome in balance. Finally, tart green Granny Smith apples encourage beneficial bacteria while also contributing energy-boosting malic acid and a healthy fiber known as pectin. With so much riding on the health of the gut microbiome, it’s good to know that we can support it simply by making wise (organic) dietary choices. Your gut – along with your entire body – will thank you. Sources for this article include: CandidaYeastInfection.org ScienceDaily.com Academic.oup.com To read the original article click here.

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6 INCREDIBLE Probiotic Foods to Improve Digestion and Immunity

AHA Publisher — Thu, 02 Sep 2021 07:00:54 +0000

Michelle Marks via NaturalHealth365 – Probiotics are foods that help build the population of healthy bacteria in the gut. Why is this so important to human health? Because poor digestive health leads to a wide range of health issues from allergies to many forms of cancer. Unfortunately, too many people have consumed synthetic antibiotics – which kill healthy bacteria. As healthy adults, we are supposed to carry around 3 to 4 pounds of “good” bacteria and yeast in our gut. But, every time we take antibiotics, we kill beneficial bacteria inside the digestive tract. Dysbiosis Has Been Linked to a Multitude of Chronic Health Conditions, Scientific Evidence Suggests Eventually, a condition called dysbiosis can occur – which can cause arthritis, autoimmune illness, vitamin B deficiency, chronic fatigue syndrome, food allergies, and food sensitivities, irritable bowel disorders plus skin problems like, eczema and psoriasis. THESE Are Some of the Best Probiotic Foods to Improve Digestive Health Try eating fresh sauerkraut and pickles. Finely shredded cabbage, which gets fermented, is a super-rich source of probiotics. A 2007 study published in the journal of Applied and Environmental Microbiology revealed that more than 13 different species of gut-friendly bacteria are present in sauerkraut. Naturally speaking, pickles and sauerkraut are some of the best probiotic foods to eat – especially after a heavy dose of antibiotics. Fortunately, it’s quite easy to make your own sauerkraut at home by combining finely shredded cabbage with Himalayan sea salt. Just store it in a mason jar at room temperature. In the presence of sea salt, the cabbage releases water, and the surface bacteria on the cabbage helps in the process of fermentation. If you want to buy sauerkraut, be sure to avoid the ‘commercial’ varieties that are heat-treated and pasteurized for obvious reasons. My personal favorite store brand is Real Pickles. Miso soup is one of the mainstays of traditional Japanese medicine and is commonly used in macrobiotic cooking as a digestive regulator. Made from fermented rye, beans, rice, or barley – you can easily add a tablespoon of miso paste to hot water to make an excellent (quick), probiotic-rich soup. One of my favorite companies for quality miso paste is South River Miso Company. Kefir, which is similar to yogurt, is a fermented dairy product. High in lactobacilli and bifidus bacteria, kefir is also rich in antioxidants. Look for a good, organic version at your local health food store to improve digestive health and help restore your microbiome. Kombucha is a form of fermented tea that contains a high amount of healthy gut bacteria. This probiotic drink has been used for centuries as a natural way to boost energy levels, improve digestion and achieve weight loss goals. Just keep in mind that kombucha, with its natural sugars, may not be for everyone – especially if you suffer from candida. Tempeh – as long as it’s non-GMO – is a probiotic-rich, fermented soybean product. It’s also a delicious meat substitute for vegetarians or vegans and a nice source of vitamin B12. Kimchi is the Asian form of pickled sauerkraut. It’s actually an extremely spicy and sour fermented cabbage – typically served in Korea. Kimchi is rich in beta-carotene, calcium, iron, and vitamins A, C, B1, and B2, plus a great source of probiotics. However, proceed with a bit of caution, as this food has an intense spicy flavor. But Wait, That’s Not All! THESE Foods Also Offer Probiotic Benefits Remember, to restore your gut bacteria, it is also important to consume a variety of raw fruits and vegetables – as often as possible. We say ‘raw’ because, although most produce gets washed before consumption, some bacteria clings to the surface, providing natural probiotic benefits. Improving gut health is relatively inexpensive and loaded with health benefits like a stronger immune system and greater clarity of mind. If you suffer from serious health problems, work with an experienced healthcare provider to restore healthy bacteria today. Sources used for this article: NIH.gov NIH.gov NIH.gov This article has been modified. To read the original article click here.

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Ease Chronic Fatigue with 3 Great Ayurvedic Herbs

AHA Publisher — Fri, 26 Feb 2021 08:00:26 +0000

Karen Sanders via NaturalHealth365 – Over a million people in the United States are currently diagnosed with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC), it is likely that millions more are battling similar symptoms but don’t meet all the standards for a formal diagnosis. What are the signs of CFS? Well, symptoms – including overwhelming fatigue, confusion, memory loss, joint pain, anxiety, and depression – can be debilitating; in severe cases, careers, marriages, and relationships may be jeopardized. Yet, CFS remains a “mystery” to Western medicine, although – like many health issues – natural health experts believe that environmental toxins like EMF pollution from wireless technology, nutritional deficiencies, and emotional stress play a significant role on energy levels. Conventionally speaking, there is no cure for CFS, but, sadly, these same physicians will often prescribe NSAIDS and antidepressants to help ‘manage’ symptoms – which offer plenty of negative side effects. Unfortunately, studies have demonstrated that when CFS remains undiagnosed for many years, the condition rapidly worsens. How Can Ayurvedic Medicine Help You Overcome Chronic Fatigue Syndrome? In Ayurveda, chronic fatigue syndrome – or Bala-kshaya – is believed to be caused by a buildup of toxins, resulting in a disconnect between mind, body, and spirit. Treatment is holistic and includes meditation, diet, massage, breathing techniques, and herbal therapies. Naturally, it’s an intelligent decision to minimize your toxic burden – as a top priority – along with incorporating immune-supportive therapies. Once you remove toxic threats, try a cleansing diet, followed by “panchakarma” – a more extensive detoxification process involving massage oils and herbal therapies. The third stage normally consists of rejuvenating herbal therapy to help restore energy and vitality. Don’t underestimate the value of ashwagandha, rhodiola, and brahmi – three powerful, healing herbs. Ashwagandha, scientifically known as Withania somnifera and also called “Indian ginseng” and “winter cherry,” is a Rasayana – an herb believed to prolong life, combat disease, and protect both body and mind from stress. According to Alakananda Devi, director of the Alandi Ayurvedic Clinic in Boulder, Colorado, ashwagandha restores energy and improves CFS patients’ neurological and muscular functions. It also helps regulate sleep cycles, boosts the immune system, and reduces anxiety and depression. Do CFS Patients Really Need Toxic Antidepressant Medications? In an animal study published in 2000 in Phytomedicine, ashwagandha extracts performed as well as Ativan, a benzodiazepine, to reduce anxiety. Researchers also found that ashwagandha’s antidepressant effect was equal to that of imipramine, a pharmaceutical medication sold under the name Tofranil. Noting that ashwagandha reduced brain levels of tribulin, a chemical marker of anxiety, researchers concluded that the study supported ashwagandha’s use as a mood stabilizer and an anti-anxiety therapy. In an animal study published in 2002 in the Journal of Medicinal Food, ashwagandha, in conjunction with other herbs, restored brain levels of natural antioxidants and measurably reduced the oxidative stress contributing to chronic fatigue. Scientific Studies Continue to Confirm the Effectiveness of Ayurvedic Herbs As useful as ashwagandha is in fighting CFS, it is not the only Rasayana herb that has received scientific attention. Rhodiola Rosea, the root of a plant that grows in Arctic regions, is also used in Ayurveda to restore neurological function, enhance energy, reduce fatigue, alleviate depression and restore natural sleeping patterns. According to NYU Langone Medical Center, rhodiola may help people function better when they are under stress. The medical center cites a double-blind, placebo-controlled study in which 56 physicians on overnight duty who were given rhodiola could retain higher levels of mental function than the placebo group. Noted herbal authority, Chris Kilham, points out that extensive clinical studies have confirmed that rhodiola increases strength and stamina while promoting mental clarity. Like ashwagandha, rhodiola combats chronic fatigue syndrome on many levels and does so without serious adverse effects. Yet another Ayurvedic herb alleviates “brain fog,” enhances memory, and lifts mood. Brahmi, scientifically known as Bacopa monnieri and also called Indian pennywort, is prized in Ayurveda as a mental tonic to treat Alzheimer’s disease, age-related cognitive deficits, and chronic fatigue syndrome. Researchers have found that constituents called bacosides have a relaxant effect on veins, allowing for enhanced blood flow and supporting mental clarity, concentration and focus. Are There Any Clinical Studies Supporting Brahmi’s Benefits? Yes. In a double-blind placebo-controlled study published in 2008 in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 300 milligrams a day of Bacopa extract were given for six weeks to elderly volunteers. Using a battery of diagnostic tools, including the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale and the Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test, researchers found that those in the Bacopa group had enhanced word recall memory scores. Researchers noted that the group who had taken Bacopa had declining levels of depression and anxiety; in the non-Bacopa group, levels continued to rise. The team noted that Bacopa had the potential for safely enhancing cognitive performance. How Can I Use These Herbs for Chronic Fatigue? Although ashwagandha, rhodiola, and brahmi are generally safe, they can interact with other herbal remedies, prescription medications, and supplements. Naturally, it’s best to consult a trusted doctor before using these herbs to treat chronic fatigue syndrome and follow serving instructions carefully. And, of course, make sure to obtain your herbs from a reputable source. Remember, herbs are only part of the Ayurvedic approach to healing. An Ayurvedic practitioner can recommend simple dietary and lifestyle changes that can speed up your recovery time. Chronic fatigue syndrome can be a frustrating, baffling, and debilitating condition, but you don’t have to let it control your life – or feel compelled to take toxic prescription medications. Many people have found relief with safe, natural Ayurvedic remedies that work to eliminate toxins, bring the body back into balance, and restore good health. Sources for this article include: NIH.gov GlobinMed.com NIH.gov To read the original article click here. For more articles from NaturalHealth365 click here.

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How to Detox Your Body from Mold Without Stressing Out Your Kidneys & Liver

AHA Publisher — Fri, 16 Oct 2020 07:00:04 +0000

Isaac Eliaz, MD, MS, LAc via Dr. Axe – You may not be aware of it, but mold is probably affecting your health. So even if it’s not on your mind, “how to detox your body from mold” should be something we all need to be asking. Even if mold is making you sick, you might not know it’s the source of your symptoms. That’s because mold toxicity can act like many other conditions, so it often goes misdiagnosed and untreated. Exposure can cause many different symptoms, including: Fatigue Cough Shortness of breath Fever Headache Joint pain Memory problems Dizziness Sinus infections Wheezing Trouble concentrating Sensitivity to light Skin rash Digestive problems One of the main reasons mold toxins can cause so many different symptoms is this: These toxins can suppress or damage your immune system. Not only can they bring on symptoms themselves, they can make you more vulnerable to other illnesses. Surrounded by Mold Mold exposure is shockingly common. It’s found in the air, damp or water-damaged buildings, even the food you’re eating. Foods that commonly contain mold include cereal grains, nuts, spices, coffee, bulk foods (like the kind you buy from bins to save money) and dairy products. You come across mold inside and outside, and it can travel around with you. Mold spores can attach to things like: Clothing Shoes Pets Reusable grocery bags That means it can come home with you from just about anywhere. And if it ends up somewhere even slightly damp, it will grow and multiply. Mold Produces Toxins In nature, mold speeds up the break down (decomposition) of things like dead trees and fallen leaves. Some molds are used to make cheese or create antibiotics. But many types of mold can be hazardous to your health. These molds produce mycotoxins, poisons that can cause severe health problems and a wide variety of symptoms. The two most common harmful mycotoxins are aflatoxin and ochratoxin, and exposure to either (or both) of these can trigger substantial health issues — from chronic allergies to cancer. What’s more, if your body can’t remove these toxins on its own, they can slip into long-term storage to cause lasting or recurring damage. Mycotoxins Damage Your Health (and Your Immune System) Mycotoxins are sneaky. While mold itself can’t enter your bloodstream — though it can hang around and colonize in spots like your nostrils and lungs — mycotoxins can get into your bloodstream and circulate throughout your body. These opportunistic toxins can hijack your immune system, making you more vulnerable to infections. If your immune system is already compromised (such as people with autoimmune conditions or undergoing cancer treatment), mycotoxins take advantage. If you’re healthy, they can make you very sick. Studies show that mycotoxins can: Cause lung inflammation that can make it harder to breathe Disrupt your gut health by reducing beneficial bacteria and encouraging pathogens Trigger chronic fatigue syndrome Affect brain function and cognition Cause liver damage, including cancer Worsen allergy and asthma symptoms Unfortunately, mold toxicity is frequently misdiagnosed. Because of its wide-ranging effects, it’s typically mistaken for other conditions including depression, multiple sclerosis, or autoimmune conditions. Plus, because mycotoxins are opportunistic, they’re often connected with debilitating diseases such as Lyme disease, IBS (irritable bowel syndrome) and fibromyalgia. Your Genes Can Make You More Vulnerable Around 25% of people are genetically predisposed to get sick from mold exposure. A simple test, called the HLA-DR, can tell you if you’re in that more susceptible population. If you are, it means your immune system can’t easily identify and get rid of mycotoxins. That can allow them to build up in the body, causing harm wherever they end up. On top of that, because of that genetic twist, even relatively small exposures to mycotoxins can affect you. And even if you’re not genetically susceptible to mold sickness, it can still impact your health. Healthy people can get sick from chronic or intense mold exposure. People with already compromised immune systems — even if their bodies can identify mold — are also extra vulnerable to mold toxicity. If that’s you, be sure should to double down on how to detox your body from mold. How to Detox Your Body from Mold Even if you’re not especially sensitive to mold, your body still needs help safely clearing out mycotoxins. When these aren’t removed properly and completely, they can cycle back around, and cause ongoing damage and symptoms. The best way to clear out these toxins is with proven toxin-binders. It’s important to make sure you’re working with safe, gentle detoxing agents so they don’t overtax your body’s clearance system (mainly your liver and kidneys). At the same time, you must use proven binders that don’t allow toxins to be reabsorbed in the intestines rather than excreted from the body. One prescription cholesterol-lowering medication called Cholestyramine binds strongly to some mycotoxins — especially ochratoxin — and keeps them getting reabsorbed. On the natural front, modified citrus pectin (MCP) has been extensively researched as an effective detoxifying agent. Because MCP works so gently, it’s safe for long-term use, which is often necessary for completely removing mycotoxins from your system. MCP works especially well when paired with another natural detoxifier: seaweed-derived alginates, natural gel-like substances that bind tightly to toxins. The combination of MCP and alginate prevents toxins — including mycotoxins and heavy metals — from being reabsorbed in the intestines. And although they make a strong detoxifying team, MCP and alginate are easily tolerated and their gentle action won’t strip essential minerals from your body. Equally important, MCP offers additional benefits that are essential when combating mold: Breaking the biofilm — By blocking galectin-3 and disrupting the biofilm backbone structure, it makes it easier for the body to identify the mold hiding in these areas and clear it, along with fungal infections that produce mycotoxins. Removing heavy metals — Fungus thrives on mercury. MCP as well as alginate are superior binders that safely remove mercury as well as lead, cadmium, uranium, arsenic and other heavy metals from the body. Calming inflammation — MCP reduces the excessive inflammatory response that is responsible for many of the mold-driven symptoms. Other mycotoxin detoxifiers include: Activated charcoal Bentonite clay Glutathione Chlorella In addition to utilizing detoxifiers when answering the “how do I detox my body from mold” question, it’s also important to strengthen your gut microbiome (the trillions of bacteria that live in your gut) with a high-quality probiotic and prebiotic combination. And, whenever possible, avoid mold exposure. This can be tricky, as mold can be tough to detect (if it’s inside walls, for example) and remove. Most important, if you’re concerned about mold toxicity, it’s critical to work with an experienced health practitioner who knows what to test for and which therapies are most appropriate for your situation. With the right support, you can identify—and resolve—any long-standing mold issues, and experience greater long-term health and vitality. To read the original article click here. For more articles from Dr. Axe click here.

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Not Getting Better with Treatment? Time to Target Biofilms

AHA Publisher — Sun, 03 May 2020 07:00:05 +0000

Isaac Eliaz, MD, MS, LAc via Dr. Axe – As an integrative, holistic physician, it’s not uncommon to see complex patients who have been “failed” by conventional medicine. They’ve tried every option to address their condition, with no success. Standard drug protocols and alternative therapies have proven futile, leaving doctors scratching their heads — and patients feeling powerless. Often, they’re struggling with some sort of mystery illness causing vague symptoms like fatigue, brain fog and digestive complaints for years. However, groundbreaking research in a fast-growing field of medicine may have an answer — offering critical insights into the increasing problems surrounding “mystery illnesses” and “treatment resistance.” Most importantly, new findings have identified a critical therapeutic target that can reverse this potentially life-threatening situation — allowing drugs therapies and the body’s own immune cells to do what they’re supposed to: Heal us. From chronic Lyme disease and drug-resistant MRSA, to atherosclerosis, chemo-resistant cancer and undiagnosed mystery conditions, patients who are struggling to find solutions may share a common thread: Biofilms within the body. The Matrix Revealed Biofilms are physical barriers that form around infections, tumors and other areas of injury and illness in the body. In some respect, they represent one of the body’s survival strategies: To isolate problem areas so they don’t spread. But, paradoxically, biofilms create a type of shield that prevents drugs, therapeutic agents and the immune system from reaching the affected area. This is why, despite aggressive treatments, many patients don’t get better — until biofilms are addressed. Many biofilm structures in the body are formed by colonies of different harmful microbes as their own protection — a key survival strategy of these organisms themselves. Common offenders include H. pylori, species of Candida and other fungi, E. coli, dental plaque and other microbial and parasitic species, including Lyme disease. Many of us live with them unknowingly, attributing vague symptoms to other causes. These microbes secrete a gel-like substance which binds to sugars and proteins, heavy metals, minerals and other substances in the body to form a sticky, tenacious, pro-inflammatory armor behind which toxins, bacteria, fungi and parasites can hide. Biofilms interfere with detoxification and nutrient absorption, promote and protect co-infections, create arteriosclerotic plaque, and give cancer cells a place to hide. Imagine the slime trails left by slugs and add in calcium, heavy metals and toxins, and other components to create structural strength. Tiny canals within the matrix allow nutrients and messages to pass between organisms, which signal to each other to make complex decisions that promote their growth and survival. Organisms enmeshed in a biofilm community are much more resistant to antimicrobial therapies than their free-living counterparts. They are also able to sense what’s going on in their surroundings and become more invasive when their host is weak. Galectin-3: The Backbone of Biofilms There is one protein in our body that contributes significantly to the formation of biofilms: The pro-inflammatory protein called galectin-3 (Gal-3). This sticky binding protein gets expressed into the circulation in response to illness, infection, injury, stress, aging and other factors, but subsequently, it becomes a driver of chronic inflammation, tumor growth and metastasis, fibrosis and immune suppression. Gal-3 has a unique shape that allows it to bind to itself and form pentamers, which then bind to other pro-inflammatory compounds to create dense lattice structures. These Gal-3 lattices are what form the backbone of biofilms. Tumors can also use Gal-3 to shield the tumor microenvironment, allowing the cancer to protect itself from drug treatments and immune surveillance. Strategic Success: Addressing Biofilms Addressing biofilms represents a key strategic approach to resolving persistent infections as well as cancer and other chronic, inflammatory conditions. The best way to address biofilms is with specific antibiofilm agents and detox therapies that are shown to help to break up the biofilm structures and allow other treatments — conventional or complementary — to reach their target tissues. Modified Citrus Pectin The most important natural detox and protection supplement that’s proven to block Gal-3 is a form of modified citrus pectin (MCP) — a clinically researched ingredient derived from regular citrus pectin and modified for a high degree of bioactivity against numerous conditions. I use MCP extensively in my practice to address Gal-3 in cancer, cardiovascular and kidney disease and many other conditions. This MCP is the only known agent able to bind and block the pro-inflammatory, pro-fibrotic and cancer-promoting actions of Gal-3 and is shown through extensive research to halt and reverse the impacts of Gal-3 in critical illnesses. Because this MCP binds and blocks Gal-3 and interrupts its biofilm lattice formations, it’s been shown in multiple studies and clinical application to synergistically enhance the effects of other drugs and therapies — from chemotherapy to antibiotic treatments. It’s also a powerful detoxification and heavy metal binder often used in biofilm protocols as a “mopping agent” to clean up the byproducts of disrupted biofilms and microbes. Heavy metal toxicity is often linked to biofilm formation and chronic infection, which makes MCP another key element in the success of these protocols. Certain Edible Mushrooms Research shows that certain edible mushrooms may offer important antibiofilm and antibacterial activities, inhibiting the formation of biofilms by common bacteria, and preventing them from adhering to tissues and forming complex colony structures. Of the varieties tested, Trametes versicolor mushroom — one that I use extensively in my practice — showed the highest antibiofilm and antibacterial activity Alginates from Kelp Additional research shows that alginates, derived from kelp seaweed, have the ability to break up biofilms formed by gram-negative bacteria. Low molecular weight alginates are often used in GI health protocols, and I also use them in my clinic as part of detoxification formulas to help remove toxins and microbial infections in the GI tract. Enzymes and Probiotics Advanced enzyme formulations are often used to break down and dissolve the biofilm matrix. The enzymes are usually given on an empty stomach, prior to giving a specific antimicrobial therapy — either pharmaceutical agents, botanicals or both. Probiotics are given separately; they exert their own protective effects to support digestive health and help restore balance to the digestive system. Final Thoughts on Biofilms By incorporating specific agents to strategically address the issue of biofilms, treatments become more effective and easier to tolerate. Successful treatment of biofilms in the body can allow practitioners and patients to finally triumph over persistent, health-robbing infections and conditions. Chronic infections are often a looming factor behind complex disorders such as autism spectrum disorder, chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia. Biofilm treatment is showing promising success with these and other conditions, including integrative Lyme treatment, particularly when combined with other targeted nutrients and compounds to restore health and vitality. To read the original article click here. For more articles from Dr. Axe click here.

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